Mbala returns for La Salle, survives late run by Adamson to remain undefeated

Reigning MVP Ben Mbala is now back in the roster of the DLSU Green Archers after missing the first two games of the team.

La Salle still keeps their record unblemished at 3-0 after defeating Adamson, 85-73, Wednesday, in the UAAP 80 Men’s Basketball Tournament at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

Playing in his first UAAP game of the season after a successful FIBA-Africa campaign, Ben Mbala scored 10 quick points during the first quarter, highlighted by two triples. The first quarter ended, 36-12 in favor of the green and white.

It was more of the same during the second period. Mbala poured in 11 points to finish the first half with 21 points as the first half ended with the team from Taft in full control, 55-33.

It seems that the game would be a blowout, but the Falcons fought back and cut the lead to single-digits, as the third quarter ended, 70-61 to set up an exciting fourth quarter.

The Falcons had their chances during the final period, but it seems it was a case of too little, too late, as the huge lead of the Archers during the first half was enough cushion for La Salle to pick up the win.

Ben Mbala finishing with 32 points and 10 rebounds and Leonard Santillian chipped in 10 points for the Taft-based squad.

Meanwhile, Robbie Manalang scored 16 points, Pappi Sarr adding 12 points and 16 big boards while Jerrick Ahanmissi struggled once again with a 3/11 shooting to finish with 10 markers for Adamson who now falls to 1-2.